UPSC Notes

Renewable Energy Integration and Grid Modernisation

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This concept is central to India's energy transition, climate change commitments (e.g., NDC targets), and achieving energy security. It involves technological advancements and policy frameworks for sustainable development and economic growth.

India is actively pursuing the integration of renewable energy sources into its national grid and modernizing its electricity infrastructure to ensure reliable and efficient power supply, crucial for energy security and climate goals.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity Addition

Non-fossil fuel capacity additions (55,225 MW in FY25-26) significantly outpaced fossil fuel additions (9,470 MW).

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) capacity (2,668.54 MW / 7,785.6 MWh in 2026) to manage intermittency and enhance grid stability.

Transmission Infrastructure Expansion

Expansion of inter-State and intra-State transmission lines (12,139 ckm in FY25-26) for efficient power evacuation and distribution.

Energy Security Objective

Measures aim to strengthen India's long-term energy security and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaRenewable & Clean Energy
Conceptual areaEmerging Information Technologies
Conceptual areaClimate Change & Conventions
Conceptual areaPhysics & Materials Science

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Central Electricity Authority (CEA)Provides technical standards and planning for grid integration
Ministry of PowerFormulates policies and schemes for renewable energy and grid modernization
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Conceptual understanding

Quick revision

  • Focus on non-fossil fuel capacity additions (e.g., solar, wind).
  • BESS deployment crucial for managing RE intermittency.
  • Transmission infrastructure expansion vital for RE evacuation.
  • Aims to bolster energy security and reduce fossil fuel reliance.
  • Key for India's climate goals and sustainable development.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Renewable & Clean EnergyEmerging Information TechnologiesClimate Change & ConventionsPhysics & Materials Science

MODERNISATION OF THE POWER SECTOR AND RELIABLE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

03 Aug 2026 · India is rapidly modernizing its power grid to integrate a growing share of renewable energy. This involves substantial capacity additions in non-fossil fuels, deployment of energy storage systems like BESS, and strengthening transmission infrastructure to ensure grid stability, energy security, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Renewable Energy Integration and Grid Modernisation

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Renewable Energy Integration and Grid Modernisation in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Renewable Energy Integration and Grid Modernisation

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

Consider the following: 1. Battery storage 2. Biomass generators 3. Fuel cells 4. Rooftop solar photovoltaic units How many of the above are considered "Di...

2024·Science & Technology
Solve

Consider the following statements about 'PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana': I. It targets installation of one crore solar rooftop panels in the residential s...

2025·Social Issues & Schemes
Solve

With reference to the usefulness of the by-products of the sugar industry, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Bagasse can be used as biomas...

2013·Science & Technology
Solve

With reference to solar power production in India, consider the following statements: 1. India is the third largest in the world in the manufacture of silic...

2018·Environment & Ecology
Solve

Consider the following statements: 1. Gujarat has the largest solar park in India. 2. Kerala has a fully solar powered International Airport. 3. Goa has the...

2022·Environment & Ecology
Solve

With reference to solar water pumps, consider the following statements: 1. Solar power can be used for running surface pumps and not for submersible pumps. 2...

2020·Environment & Ecology
Solve

With reference to ‘fuel cells’ in which hydrogen-rich fuel and oxygen are used to generate electricity. Consider the following statements: 1. If pure hydroge...

2015·Environment & Ecology
Solve

In the context of proposals to the use of hydrogen-enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for buses in public transport, consider the following statements : 1. The mai...

2019·Environment & Ecology
Solve

Editorial & Review Process

Every revision note and practice question on UPSC Practice is researched using authoritative primary sources and reviewed for factual accuracy, syllabus relevance, and exam value. Read our Editorial Policy.

Verified Quality